Dementia is a progressive brain disorder that affects a person’s cognitive abilities, memory, and behavior. In the later stages of the disease, some patients can become combative and aggressive, making it difficult for caregivers to provide the necessary care. As a hospice nurse, it’s essential to know how to approach and manage combative dementia patients to ensure their comfort and safety. Here are some best practices to consider:
Be aware of Triggers
Environmental factors, such as loud noises or unfamiliar surroundings, can often trigger combative behavior in dementia patients. To prevent outbursts, it’s essential to observe and identify these triggers and try to eliminate or reduce them. It’s also crucial to recognize that some medications or medical conditions can cause irritability or agitation.
Maintain a Calm and Non-threatening Approach
Approaching a combative dementia patient with a calm and non-threatening demeanor is essential to prevent escalating situations. Always approach the patient slowly and avoid sudden movements that may startle or frighten them. Make eye contact, speak softly and soothingly, and use simple language to convey your message.
And may I suggest you ditch the mask — and those unaware of the ineffectiveness of masks for most situations, including the C-Word, read the extensive study completed in January of this year — and smile, smile, smile, and let the dementia patient see your beautiful face and smile.
Validate their feelings
Dementia patients may experience a range of emotions, such as frustration, anxiety, or confusion. Acknowledge their feelings and try to empathize with them. Validating their emotions can help them feel heard and understood, reducing the likelihood of combative behavior.
I strongly suggest anyone working with dementia patients read the article about Validation Therapy, as I’ve used the techniques established by Naomi Feil for years with remarkable success.
Use positive reinforcement
Positive reinforcement can help redirect combative dementia patients’ behavior and encourage them to engage in positive activities. Praise and reward good behavior and try to redirect their attention to a calming activity, such as listening to music or doing a puzzle.
Ensure safety
Safety is paramount in situations where a dementia patient becomes combative. Ensure that the patient is safe from harm and that other patients or staff are not at risk of injury.
To Avoid Doing
Avoid taking any action that would be considered a physical restraint. If you physically restrain a patient, you may be charged with battery. If you are concerned that you may be trapped in a situation, avoid the situation until you get help, as you do not want to be in front of a judge explaining why you attacked (battery) and caused harm (battery) to a patient with dementia.
Avoid speaking to the dementia patient as if they are a child. Please do not use “baby talk,” and try to avoid terms of endearment the family did not permit.
Avoid threatening (assault) the patient if they do not listen to you or act a certain way. While potentially less of a criminal offense than a battery, assault is still a significant crime.
If you remember a patient with dementia who deserves respect, kindness, gentleness, and love, you will do well.
Conclusion
Caring for combative dementia patients requires compassion, patience, and understanding. By following these best practices, hospice nurses can help maintain a safe and comfortable environment for the patient and staff. Remember to stay calm, validate their feelings, and ensure their safety.
